Cinematic Doctrine

Akira - Transcendental Filmmaking

Kathryn Benson Season 1 Episode 231

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MOVIE DISCUSSION: 

Kathryn joins Melvin to discuss one of the most pivotal anime-film releases to ever grace the silver-screen; Akira! This 1988 film not only pushed the genre of animation to its limits, it also introduced anime to the west as a serious new genre of entertainment! Does it still hold up? Spoilers: absolutely it does!

Topics:

  • (PATREON EXCLUSIVE) 18-minutes discussing the ins-and-outs of the cyberpunk aesthetic, what makes it distinct from other sci-fi settings, and whether its our preference. (PATREON EXCLUSIVE)
  • The vibes are strong with Akira.
  • The quality is strong with Akira.
  • When Melvin first saw the film he liked it but wasn't impressed. This time around? He thinks its incredible.
  • Although the characters aren't profoundly deep, they are a clever, complicated mix of different figures amidst a chaotic, epic story.
  • Every 10 minutes something crazier than the last happens on screen.
  • Kathryn wasn't totally wowed by Akira but she totally understands its titan-status in filmmaking.
  • Discussing Building, Rebuilding, and Destruction.
  • Talking about Kaneda.
  • Discussing the line, "Time isn't clear, and there ought to be a future we can choose."
  • Getting into that absolutely insane ending.

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